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Welcome to SBA's Small Business VOICE - an online discussion forum with the entrepreneaur in mind.

TODAY'S WEB CHAT PARTICIPANTS: PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR CHAT DISCUSSION.
THERE IS NO AUDIO FORMAT TO THE CHAT

Host: Arthur Woods, young entrepreneur and CEO of Mission Three (M3), a new company on college campuses throughout Washington, D.C., in the early stages of serving corporate customers in the District of Columbia, Chicago, New York and Philadelphia.

Time: Thursday, June 28, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. ET (10:00 a.m. PT)
 
Arthur Woods
Arthur Woods
Young Entrepreneur & CEO of Mission Three


Topic:

"Youth Entrepreneurship"

 

 

Arthur Woods is a thriving young entrepreneur and owner of Mission Three (M3) headquartered in Washington, D.C., which provides fresh orchard delivery services.

 

Woods will share the story of how at an early age his passion for leadership, volunteerism and fundraising parlayed into a business based on the core philosophies of health, environment and community. Woods will also give insight into the successes and challenges of young entrepreneurship. Chat participants will have the opportunity to learn more about what it takes to turn a business idea into a reality.


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Live Chat
From : U.S. Small Business Administration
Location : Washington , D.C.
Question :

Reply :
I would like to thank the SBA for providing this resourceful service and to everyone who submitted questions. I truly enjoyed responding to the wide variety off topics and I hope my answers were somewhat helpful. If you have any further questions or interest in Mission Three, feel free to email our team via our www.MissionThree.com or me directly at ceo@missionthree.com. Thanks, Arthur Woods
From : Michelle
Location : ,
Question :
I'm thinking about opening a boutique. What are the first steps that you need to take when you start a new business?

Reply :
First of all you should assess whether you really should go into business. What edxperience do you have? Do you have the time? Is your family situation such that they could take a lesser standard of living while the business gets started? Take a look at the training courses on www.sba.gov under Services. There is a primer that might be helpful, among other things.
From : ShaRay
Location : Savannah , Georgia
Question :
Was it hard coming up with your business and being an entrepreneur?

Reply :
Dear ShaRay, the path of entrepreneurship often has many turns and many bumps. I have often been faced with decisions that appear lucrative financially but don't follow the company's values. Things often don't go as planned and there can be difficult experience that test your perseverance. However, your work in entrepreneurship can be the most gratifying experience and can enable you to work with the most incredible people. The experience for me has outweighed all of the obstacles I have faced.
From : Opal Flaire
Location : Santa Monica , CA
Question :
I have just invested $300 dollars into a direct-sales business. As a young entrepreneur, how show I go about marketing to customers? What are some of your best marketing techniques?

Reply :
There are marketing counrses as well as marketing publications available on the webssite of the U.S. Small Business Administration at www.sba.gov. Look under tools for the Library and under Services for Online Training. Also consider talking your marketing problems over with a SCORE counselor -- the nerest to Santa Monica is Glendale where the number is (818) 552-3206.
From : LaTanya Millhouse
Location : Birmingham , Alabama
Question :
What is the most important attribute in identifying an young entrepreneur.

Reply :
Hi LaTonya, I believe a true young entrepreneur genuinely leads from the heart. With this must come intelligence. With that balance of passion and intuition, there are unbelievable opportunism for a young entrepreneur to succeed.
From : Katrina Vasquez
Location : Brooklyn , NY
Question :
What resources are out there and online to help youth that are interested in starting a business ?

Reply :
Three sites that target young people with business ideas: the U.S. Small Business Administration teen website www.sba.gov/teens; www.mindyourownbiz.org; and the Young Entrepreneurs section at www.score.org/youth.html. The last site is conducted by SCORE: Counselors to America's small business. You can talk to a SCORE member in Brooklyn, free of charge by calling (718) 623-7010
From : joey watts
Location : cornettesville , kentucky
Question :
how old do you have to be to get all the stuff required to start a small buisiness?

Reply :
There are no set ages, but please take a look at a couple of websites that might help you. One is the teen website of the U.S. Small Business Administration at www.sba.gov/teens and the other is www.mindyourownbiz.org.
From : Carlos
Location : Lynn, MA , MA
Question :
I move from Puerto Rico, here to Lynn, MA. I want to start my new business, providing Computer Services. (Networking, Break-Fix, Consulting). I need to know how can i start? and what i need?

Reply :
Please talk over your plans with a member of SCORE: Counselors to America's Small Business. The nearest chapter is in Boston at 10 Causeway St., Room 265. The telephone number is (617) 565-5591.
From : Shakazulu
Location : New York , New York
Question :
Does your business interfere with your love life?? Because I'm trying to start a business, but i have a fiance who's constantly on my back about my working habits. How do you balance it out??

Reply :
Hi Shakazulu, I'm glad you asked. To answer your question, my girlfriend just attempted to reach me but I was unable to answer the phone as I was responding to SBA chat questions. I've found that it is an incredibly large balancing act to run a company while maintaining a love life. I believe that when your partner can understand your commitment to your goals and support you in your passions, it can work out harmoniously. Never forget the people you care about most--they are your support system and always your greatest assets. I'll be calling my girlfriend back immediately after this chat!
From : Paul Escobedo
Location : Queen Qreek , Arizona
Question :
We have a solid business plan. We also got off to a great start, the only thing that we are lacking is appropriate funding. Do you have any suggestions or money I can have.

Reply :
COnsider talking over your plans with a member of SCORE: COunselors to America's Small Business. The lcosest chapter to Queen Creek is Phoneix. The address there is 2828 N. Central Ave. Suite 800, and the phone number is (602)745-7250.
From : Carol
Location : Detroit , MI
Question :
Hello, Arthur! What areas do you feel are most important for small business owners to keep up on in terms of continuing education that will have the greatest positive impact for a person's business. Thank you!

Reply :
Hi Carol, I've come to realize that education is the greatest asset to any business owner. I would recommend amercing yourself in areas where you experience weakness. With this said, don't ever be afraid to try out something completely new and off the wall! One year ago I would have never guessed that I would be working in the agriculture industry but today, I'm extremely glad that I took a leap of faith to do so. Though I am a college student, I continue to feel as though much of my learning opportunities exist outside of the classroom. I would recommend a balance of book studies and practical application.
From : Angela Carrel
Location : Perry , Michigan
Question :
There is a coffee shop for sale in our town that I would really like to buy. I haven't had a whole lot of business training yet, just about a semester of business classes, but this business has just started to make a profit and is already getting on its feet. I would obviously need a loan for it and don't have any collateral and also already have school debt. what kind of loan would you suggest and do you think this is a wise decision (this is the particular kind of coffee shop I have always dreamed of owning and it is selling by the end of June it looks like). What kind of interest rate is good for this kind of endeavor?

Reply :
Please consider talking over your plans with a member of SCORE: Counselors to America's Small Business. The SCORE chapter near4est Perry is in Detroit. THey are located at 477 Michigan Avenue and the phone number is (313)226-7947.
From : Johnny Veasey
Location : McKinney , Texas
Question :
I was just wondering can you start a small business with no liquid capital? I am interested in becoming a small business owner. My goal is to purchase a Subway franchise or Wingstop. My credit score is fair. What steps do I need to take to begin the process with no liquid capital?

Reply :
Please consider talking over your plans with a member of SCORE: COunselors to America's Small Bysuness. The chapter nearest McKinney is in Dallas. They are located at 5646 Milton St., Suite 303 and their telephone number is (214) 987-9491.
From : Amber
Location : Bowie , MD
Question :
What was your inspiration to create this business?

Reply :
Hi Amber, thanks for your question. First and foremost, I felt inspired to introduce a for-profit business with non-profit values. I felt that a company with these characteristics could potentially set an example in the business world. Our core values easily led to a business model that served family farmers and consumers. The concept inspired me even more when I realized that I could work with people I cared about. Overall, the concept has become one that I feel has great potential and is very near to my heart.
From : Dianna Harris
Location : ,
Question :
I'd like to start a nonprofit teen club. I'm not sure where to start. One person advised to buy and renovate the place I had in mind and then work on it. However I don't have the money to buy this place and I'm not sure how to apply to grants. Where should I start?

Reply :
There are no federal grants to start any kind of small business. There may be some state or local grants, but there is no assurance they are available for a teen club. COnsider talking over your plans with a member of SCORE: Counselors to America's small business. You did not give your location or I would give you a phone number. You can find a chapter near where you are by going to www.score.org.
From : Helene, 20
Location : Los Angeles ,
Question :
Arthur how do you plan to expand your business? I see that you are working in several cities?

Reply :
Hi Helene, we are working to patent the concept and to involve other cities in the college campus and corporate office delivery service. Our development team is now in the process of creating a comprehensive guide that will outline the ways to go about starting a branch of the company. Our intent is to first serve the east coast and then explore opportunities from there.
From : Fapiena Kaho
Location : Sacramento , California
Question :
I am a full-time student. I have 15 years of experience in the broadcast industry. I have been wanting for years to start a small non-profit organisation of press release, TV programs, radio programs aiming at assisting my fellow polynesian community to be better U.S. citizens. I have the plan already but to implement and funding for it is the problem. I don't know where to start from and to whom I shall talk to for assistance. Please help.

Reply :
Your years of experience are an a real asset; putting them into a nonprofit organization might be a little more complicated than going for-profit. However, please consider talking over your plans with a member of SCORE: Counselors to America's Small Business. There is a chapter in Sacramento and the service is free. They are located at 4990 Stockton Blvd., and their telephone number is (916) 635-9085.
From : James Willliams
Location : , West Virg.
Question :
Hi Arthur your business is a great idea! How did you get started as a young entrepreneur and are you looking for business partners?

Reply :
Hi James, I started with a business concept of providing consumers with healthier, local products that could be conveniently delivered and offered at more affordable prices. This connected with a way in which our company could provide services and revenue to family farmers. Once I had the concept established and a motivation to build the company on an ethical foundation, I shared the idea with my friends. We went on to execute the idea and build the company. We are always fond of partnerships, especially when they are with companies who share our values. Feel free to contact me should you have any ideas at ceo@missionthree.com.
From : Sharon
Location : ,
Question :
I will be teaching and mentoring for residents in our South Carolina system for young people who are serving time in the Juvenile Detention system. For young people who may be or feel disillusioned and a sense of "it can't work for me" what do you think I could say to them to help them believe they can, if they choose, do something positive (and legal) and "make it"?

Reply :
Dear Sharon, thanks for your question. You are faced with a difficult task of motivating people who might feel as though life will lend them no further opportunities or chances to change. While so many others give up hope, you recognize that there is always time to change and to turn over a new leaf. I personally agree with you. The business world, specifically, is spectacular because of the way in which it can open doors for the people you would least expect. Each one of the young people you work with in the Juvenile Detention system has something that they care about deeply. I would encourage you to look for those values in the people you work with and do what you can to embrace them. This can be done by initiating a dialogue and honing in on the interests the youth express. With enough motivation on your part, this will begin to inspire those youth. It will show them that there is an opportunity to person what they care about and that overall, there is something more to live for.
From : Carol Cherapan
Location : Phoenix , AZ
Question :
Mr Woods, How did you get the drive to ask enough people to become successful at what you do? Thank-you.

Reply :
Hi Carol, assembling a quality team of people is perhaps the one task that can make or break and up-coming business. I’m proud to report that the governing board of Mission Three is composed of some of my closest friends. I started by offering opportunities for involvement to people I knew and trusted. Our team persevered through the first couple months and after upon establishing ourselves in a profitable standing, some of my friends expressed an interest in moving onto other activities while many more showed interest in filling in that gap. Once our company gained more of a reputation, it became easier to share our vision with others and inspire their involvement. My advice would definitely be to start by involving people you care about and most importantly, have compatible values.
From : Ann C.
Location : Flint , Michigan
Question :
How "young" does a person have to be to help from the SBA? What is there for teens?

Reply :
There are no age-limits related to SBA help. Individual lenders may have some requirements, should you wwant to borrow money. SBA is involved in two websites directed to teens: www.sba.gov/teens and www.mindyourownbiz.org. There is a lot of information on both sites. SCORE: Counselors to America's Business also has a website directed to Young Entrepreneurs: www.score.org/young.html
From : Kareem J.
Location : Fairfax , Va.
Question :
Hi Arthur. Your business sounds intriguing. Are you working with any local grocery stores?

Reply :
Hi Kareem, our service involves a community supported agriculture delivery system right to the door of both college and corporate clients. So far, there have been a few local stores who have expressed an interest in our service but we have discovered a different niche. Our team is constantly exploring new ideas, however. You very well might see our service in some storefronts in the near future.
From : Ann C.
Location : Flint , Michigan
Question :
I'd like to get my daughter more interested in the idea of having her own business now that she is just entering high shcool. There are no programs in her shcool that I know of, and want to give her as much access as possible to information about entrepreneruship as a job choice, even if she does or does not go to college. Did your parents expose you to the business world at an eary age?

Reply :
Dear Anne, that is exciting that you are interested in getting your daughter more involved with business upon her entry into high school. Be sure that she is indeed interested in the idea, however. I became involved with business when I recognized that it allowed for creativity, personal ownership in an ambitious endeavor and an opportunity to experience an amazing sense of gratification. My parents did not expose me to business at an early age. Instead, they believed in me setting my own path and supporting me in those endeavors. I’m glad they did as there were many circumstances throughout my childhood when I had to learn from mistakes and though my parents lent their support they taught me how to work through those roadblocks on my own. The SBA is extremely resourceful and I’m sure their representative could direct you to the many opportunities that they offer for youth. I would specifically ask the SBA about the other youth organizations they support. Many of those organizations provide resources and unique opportunities for young, aspiring entrepreneurs.
From : William21
Location : ,
Question :
I am a young entrepreneur and I have a really great idea, one that hasn't been introduced yet, but I need to raise a substantial amount of money and don't know where to begin?

Reply :
Hi William, it is in your best interest to be very cautious about broadcasting your idea. Before you share the idea with anyone, you should have people sign a statement of nondisclosure. I would recommend writing out summary of the idea and if you really want to express it in full detail, you might consider composing a business plan. Writing out a business plan accomplishes two important tasks. First, it allows you to ascertain what the most important characteristics of the idea and a way in which you can thoroughly explain it to another person. Second, the business plan shows that you are dedicated to the project and it is legitimate. Good luck with your idea.
From : Simeon Frierson
Location : Chicago , IL
Question :
What business would you suggest for an 18 year old to start?

Reply :
Hi Simeon, there are many business opportunities for anyone who is truly motivated. I would recommend that you focus on a few important areas that will help you to hone in on your answer. First look at what you care about and what you enjoy doing. Secondly, look at the trend in the markets in general while keeping in mind an idea that you believe could be innovative or one that could compliment or improve an existing market. Lastly, focus on the region that you will be serving and look for a need that is not being met. With these three ideas in mind, you will be able to focus on a successful business idea in which you will have a vested interest. You can always contact our development department at Mission Three and they would be happy to share with you some information about getting involved with the company in your area.
From : Joseph Burnett
Location : Saint Paul , MN
Question :
I would like to own my own business after college. I have talked to several CEO's, and they all seem to agree on one point. When thinking of what field you wish to enter, ask yourself what you are most passionate about. Find something that you want to take the time to become the best at. What questions did you ask yourself when deciding what field you wanted to enter?

Reply :
Hi Joseph, thanks for your question. When I was deciding what field to pursue, I asked myself what I was most passionate about how I could guide that passion to better serve the business world with something innovative. I wanted to pursue an endeavor that would serve others and would inspire each day to never give up, despite the many obstacles that I knew I could potentially face. I searched for a field that would allow me to grown and learn and one that would allow for creativity. Most importantly, I searched for something that I involve the people I care about.
From : Harold Cooper
Location : Sierra Vista , AZ
Question :
First of all Congratulations Arthur. What I would like to ask is if you ever think you will get out west with your products. East coast Orchard products are great. West coast orchard products are not as good. To your continued success, Harold & Heather Cooper Cooper's Healthy Boost 93 Kings Way Sierra Vista, AZ 85635 520-459-8255 http://www.DrinkAct.com/opportunity4all Proud member...Sierra Vista Chamber of Commerce info@healthyboost.ws P.S. Will you be selling online?

Reply :
Hi Harold, the west coast is very much something we have in mind for the future. I grew up in Northern California myself and am very fond of the west coast mentality. I believe the way in which our company serves consumers by providing healthy, affordable products with convenient deliveries while also serving farmers in the process, makes for a unique concept that could truly improve upon the west coast system of agriculture. Though orders for our business are all placed online, we are still focusing on our delivery system on the east coast. This fall, however, we will be offering a nationally broadcasted newsletter, hopefully with some products available for shipment around the United Sates to follow soon after. I wanted to also mention that I applaud you and Heather for focusing on health with your business in Arizona. Thanks for all that you do!
From : Jerome
Location : Detroit , Mi
Question :
What is the best and possible way to start a business with and out side investment? I was thinking Government Grants, and what's the best way to get started with this procedure.

Reply :
First of all, despite what you hear, there are no federal grants to start or expand small businesses. What I recommend is that you talk your plans over with a member of SCORE: Counselors to America's Small Business. There is a SCORE chapter in Detroit and the service is free. SCORE is located at 477 Michigan Avenue, Room 515. THe telephone number is (313)226-7947.
From : Luis Luna
Location : City of Industry , Ca
Question :
I am a young entrepreneur starting a design firm. I am located in an area were there are alot of mom's and pop's print shops that cheapen the prices just so they can get a simple buck. how do I find a market niche in this trade? our designs are superior, but graphic design is not greatly appreciated in these parts

Reply :
Hi Luis, that sounds like a very interesting situation and I can understand your frustration. I would recommend doing whatever you can to solidify that niche in the market so that both you and those other family stores can continue to succeed. My guess is that the mom and pop stores serve your local area first and foremost. With this in mind, you might explore the idea of broadening your consumer base by featuring your services on a well designed website which can be accessed online through major search engines. Best of luck with your business!
From : Brittney
Location : Chicago , IL
Question :
I've been thinking a long time about now about how I can get some type of business started, but my mom thinks I'm too young (I'm 14) and I should focus on schoool. How old are you and how old where you when you started your business.

Reply :
Hi Brittney, I think that’s excellent that you’re interested in starting a business already. Definitely don’t let anyone tell you that you’re too young. I was 15 when I started a non-profit organization in high school. Though my younger age made it difficult for the organization to gain credibility, it resulted in over $30,000 being raised for struggling schools and literacy programs. I personally think you should do whatever possible to either start a small business yourself or to gain the experience from an existing one. Remember that the Internet lends many great opportunities to people interested in starting small businesses. The most unique ideas have been broadcasted on the Internet and have resulted in incredibly high profits for young entrepreneurs.
From : Scott Barnett
Location : Atlanta , GA
Question :
Do you have any advise to help young entrepreneurs select and manage service providers (e.g., legal support, accounting expertise, website development), especially as it relates to working with people in fields that one does not know much about.

Reply :
Hi Scott, this is an excellent question. The constant challenge is to find service providers who offer the best quality at the most competitive prices and are easily approachable. I would encourage you to search for these services within the people you know. Personal connections will most likely provide you with the most heartfelt work at reasonable costs. If your personal connections choose to not offer you the services you seek, perhaps they can still serve as consultants in help you further understand the areas of confusion within the services that you are seeking. Be sure to share with the people you know your vision for the company you have established. This will allow them to connect with your dream for the company and possibly even become further involved.
From : Tonya
Location : Shreveport , LA
Question :
My husband and I are 23 year old college students and we want to open up our own clothing store. We have no clue as to how to get started nor do we have the funds to do it. Can you share with us some insight on how to get this going?

Reply :
Hi Tonya, it would be best to start by getting your ideas and goals onto paper. Write out exactly what you would like to accomplish and the timeline in which you would like to work. Next, look into the prices of opening up a store including the cost of real estate, inventory, wages and insurance. Balance this against an educated guess of your potential profits. I would recommend learning from anyone who know who is already involved in the clothing industry. Remember to invest ample time in researching and planning. My belief is that so many small businesses fail within the first year because not enough time is spent on identifying efficient operations and potentially prosperous markets. Best of luck with your store!
From : Roberto Martinez
Location : Jacksonville , Florida
Question :
Who should I contact to receive help on writting a professional Bid Proposal for the construction industry. Also whats the best way to target sub contracting opportunities in the construction industry.

Reply :
The SCORE chapter in Jacksonville likely has a counselor who can help. SCORE is a resource of the U.S. Small Business Administration and their services are free of charge. Their address is 7825 Baymeadows Way 100-B and their telephone number is (904) 443-1911.
From : Rashad Butler
Location : Homestaed , Florida
Question :
are there classes that i can attend? and were can i get more info on this topic?

Reply :
Hi Rashad, if you are more interested in Mission Three, feel free to contact our customer service department at support@missionthree.com. As far as classes, we are always available to answer questions about our vision for the company and about our experience thus far. Our team agrees that this entire process is a learning experience. This is an experience that we are more than happy to share with others. Also, I am excited to report that our new website will include many educational resources that will help people to further research information on agriculture, personal health and the well being of our environment.
From : Joshua
Location : Cottondale , Florida
Question :
Hello! Congrats on your success. My name is Joshua, and I am a High School Grad looking into starting my own construction company. My point is, "Where do I start?????". I am so lost right now. I work full time on a 3-11 shift at an AC Factory, and still hate not being my own boss and being succesfull. Do you have any advise for someone in my situation?

Reply :
Hi Joshua, I can definitely relate to your situation. My first job was working at a hardware store where I cut chain and loaded fertilizer on to pallets all day. Though I saw this as a strenuous job with extremely low wages, there was something more that I gained from my experience. I recognized the need to get my hands dirty first in every endeavor. Now with a company that has employees and a growing team of people, I am a strong believer in never asking someone to complete a task that I would not be content in completing myself. From any managerial standpoint, I feel that it is extremely important to familiarize myself in the company by working alongside the delivery staff just as readily as I would work alongside the governing board. While you might be frustrated with your current job, don’t think that the world will pass you by if your new endeavor does not develop as quickly as you would hope. Approach your new ideas methodically and it will have a much better chance of succeeding. I would recommend that you conduct research on what will be required for starting your construction company. Focus on being conservative with your estimated profits and over-estimate your expenses. This will prepare you for the worst-case scenario in the planning process. In your research stages, I would interview some established general contractors who could provide you with personal accounts of the trade and more importantly, advice for establishing your own company.
From : Stan Riley
Location : Ft. Worth , Texas
Question :
Hi Arthur, I'm still in high school and want to own my own business. It sound like you have done well in getting your business off the ground. Can you tell me what was most helpful to you in starting your business, and what you believe to be the most important thing for a young entrepreneur to get started with a business idea (did you take part of any business groups in your high school, or a entrepreneurship class?)

Reply :
Hi Stan, thanks for your question. I don’t believe there is any right way to enter the field of business. What prepared me most for the field of business were my many different extracurricular activities and learning experiences throughout high school, especially my ability to run a non-profit organization. But while I had been immersed in philanthropic endeavors throughout high school, many of my closest friends who became successful entrepreneurs were involved in activities dealing with technology while others dealt with student government. Every different learning experience enhances the capabilities and well roundedness of a future entrepreneur. I would encourage you to become involved with any groups that offer activities you enjoy and can learn from. On an academic level, my advice would be to take classes that will strengthen your understanding of finance accounting, legal studies and leadership. Overall, every academic subject will contribute to your ability to become a successful entrepreneur. Just because the class does not contain the word “business” in its title doesn’t mean that it won’t be important to your future opportunities in the business world. Best of luck, Stan!
From : amy brosick
Location : louisville , ky
Question :
how would I pull a application off line to start a home health agency?

Reply :
Depending upon the nature of the home health agency you want to start, your source would be either the City of Louisville or the State of Kentucky. Home health agencies are tightly regulated, so you need to be aware of the requirements of the particular type of agency you want to run.
From : Paul Riser
Location : Detroit , Michigan
Question :
What are your 3 most important suggestions for youth who are interested in entrepreneurship or who have even started down the path of creating their own business?

Reply :
Hi Paul, my top three suggestions for a young entrepreneur are the following: 1) Find something that you are passionate about doing 2) Look for a niche in the market where your new concept would fit or where you would have the ability to improve upon an existing market 3) Share your idea with people close to you. Assemble a team of people who will compliment your abilities and will work with you to collaboratively accomplish your end goal.
From : abu falah
Location : sharq , kuwait
Question :
i want to know philosophies of health environment and community

Reply :
Hi Abu, when I formed the idea for the company and spoke with my friends about the concept of starting a company that would be based solely on its core values. I thought about the most important values to me and realized that health, our environment and our community hit closest to home. We outlined the following ways to serve through three core values: Health – We strive to provide a variety of nutritious selections each week. Not only do customers find our fruit and specialty items rich in taste but also they discover that the products provide healthy snacks that are neither fattening nor full of unnatural chemicals. Environment -- We work to ensure that our products come from farms that implement our same values. Toigo Orchards, our current principal supplier, uses Integrated Pest Management and does not use residual sprays. Additionally, we conduct our deliveries with tote backs that are reused to encourage recycling. Community – In employing the Community Supported Agriculture system, our philosophy is to strengthen local economies by providing only locally-grown products. We also encourage customers to share their orders, we donate philanthropic causes and work in the local areas to operate through partnerships. This allows to support community events and to embrace the local culture in all that we do.
From : U.S. Small Business Administration
Location : Washington , D.C.
Question :

Reply :
Hi everyone and welcome to the SBA chat today. I'm glad to respond to questions today and I believe it will be an excellent learning experience for me, too. I'm looking forward to hearing from you. -Arthur Woods